International high school exchange students seeking host families in area

Visiting students, ages 15-18, from around the world including Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Thailand, are seeking host families in and around the area for the upcoming 2014-15 academic school year. Host families are needed for the fall semester and full school year.

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Wicked Local Waltham

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Posted Jul. 26, 2014 at 12:00 PM

Posted Jul. 26, 2014 at 12:00 PM

» Social News

Visiting students, ages 15-18, from around the world including Germany, Spain, Switzerland and Thailand, are seeking host families in and around the area for the upcoming 2014-15 academic school year. Host families are needed for the fall semester and full school year.

Host families (traditional families, singles, empty nesters, etc.) serve as mentors and a home base for their student, according to the International Experience organization. Visiting students participate as active members of the family and integrate into their host’s daily routines and traditions just like any other family member.

Hosting an international student is a great way to explore a new culture and promote a sense of lifelong learning and adventure, according to the organization.

“Every year Massachusetts plays host to many talented, top-of-their-class students with the lifelong dream of studying in America,” said Emily Rolin, iE-USA’s area director. “Our state’s spirit of hospitality and focus on academic enrichment makes it an ideal environment to develop cultural exchange and promote international diplomacy on a local level.”

iE-USA, the sponsoring program, is a nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting education and understanding through intercultural and academic exchange. iE-USA is certified by the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel and strictly adheres to all U.S. Department of State Student Exchange Program regulations and guidelines, according to the organization.

Exchange student participants undergo an extensive application and orientation process in their home country prior to being accepted into iE-USA’s program. Each student is responsible for his/her own spending money and full health insurance coverage.